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Glite Dictionary
Moorish arch

Moorish arch

9.4
An arch wider at the bottom that curves to a rounded top and appears in Islamic buildings
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : arco morisco
  • The grand entrance featured a stunning Moorish arch, showcasing the intricate design typical of Islamic architecture.

Examples

  • More artistically, the hotel incorporates Islamic motifs, such as Moorish arches, giving the resort a Middle Eastern flavor.

    Academic text (2009)

  • As we walked through the courtyard, we admired the elegant Moorish arch that framed the passageway.

  • The museum's exhibit on architectural history highlighted the beauty of the Moorish arch and its influence on later styles.

Synonyms

arch
vsMoorish arch
41 3.5

A curved structure that spans an opening and supports weight

is a specific Islamic style that widens at the base and rounds
archway
vsMoorish arch
16 4.0

A curved opening people walk through, often made of stone or brick

is an Islamic decorative form that widens at the base rather than a passage
horseshoe arch
vsMoorish arch
  • Specialized
8.1

An arch with a rounded top that curves wider than a half circle

is typical of Islamic architecture and widens at the base

Surface Forms

Moorish arch singular
Moorish arches plural

Morphology

Moorish + arch

The meaning 'an architectural arch characteristic of Moorish or Islamic architecture' is directly derived from combining 'Moorish' (relating to the Moors' artistic/architectural style) with 'arch' (an arched construction). This adjective+noun composition is compositional and cross-linguistically common, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents will readily infer the MWE's meaning.

Etymology

Moorish arch gets its name from the Moors, builders in old Spain and North Africa; it describes an arch that is 'wider at the base' and curves into a 'rounded top', like a soft horseshoe. That's why Moorish arch today means that particular wide-bottomed, rounded doorway shape.